Long-awaited work to pave the way for one of the biggest new housing developments in north Norfolk could finally get underway before the end of the year.
However, concerns over the 'high' cost of the new 215 home development on the H09 site, on land off Hempstead Road, in Holt, means it could now be phased over a number of years.
Agents acting on behalf of the landowners presented their vision for the future to Holt Town Council in the community centre on Monday night.
Iain Halls, from property consultants Strutt & Parker, and Mark Nolan, from architects Chaplin Farrant, revealed the building of a new roundabout to access the site could begin in October if revised plans for a staged development are approved by North Norfolk District Council this summer.
And they added the first 80 homes, along with a potential new filling station, pub or other roadside development, could follow in April 2017.
Members heard a developer for the site hadn't yet been identified because they are put off by the 'high infrastructure costs' – estimated at £5million - which would need to be spent before the first house could be built. This includes the cost of building a new roundabout and moving a nearby gas main.
However, members heard the site would be more appealing to investors if it could be developed in phases.
Welcoming the proposals, Holt mayor Duncan Baker said: 'We want to see the development come forward in any way we can.' And he added: 'Anything that sees it moving is going to be of benefit to the town.'
The meeting heard talks were also planned with local bus company, Sanders Coaches, over bringing forward development land at the site, which would allow the firm to extend its business. Last month, the firm, one of the area's biggest employers, warned it may be forced to drive out of Holt - unless it can find room to expand.
Mr Halls said: 'We are aware of the wishes of the Town Council in this regard.' And he added: 'Our instructions from the landowner are to progress discussions with the adjoining landowner to discuss how that can go forward.'
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